You and Iceland: A Tale of Two Cities (Separated by a Whole Bunch of Ocean)
Ever fancied swapping the hustle and bustle of London for the geothermal wonders and Viking vibes of Iceland? You're not alone! But before you pack your thermals and head to the airport, there's one crucial question: just how far is this volcanic island from the Big Smoke?
Turns out, it's not exactly a hop, skip, and a puffin jump.
We're talking about roughly 1,200 miles (or 1,900 kilometers) of sea separating you from those glaciers and geysers. That's about the same distance as eight Wembley Stadiums lined up end-to-end (although, let's be honest, that would be a pretty rubbish tourist attraction).
But hey, distance makes the heart grow fonder (and the duty-free allowance bigger), right?
So, How Long Does it Take to Get There?
Here's the good news: planes exist! A whizz on a jet airliner and you can be sipping on a geothermal cocktail in Reykjavik in around 6 and a half hours. Easy peasy.
Just remember:
- Pack some in-flight entertainment. Unless you're really into staring at the clouds (which, to be fair, can be pretty epic over the North Atlantic), you'll want some movies, books, or games to keep you occupied.
- Don't forget the snacks. Airplane food is...well, airplane food. Bring your own munchies to avoid those overpriced bags of peanuts.
Iceland vs. London: The Climate Clash
Let's be clear: London is known for its, ahem, changeable weather. Iceland, on the other hand, is all about embracing the extremes.
- London: Pack for rain showers, sunshine (maybe), and the occasional heatwave that has everyone complaining about the Tube.
- Iceland: Think layers, waterproof gear, and maybe even a swimsuit for those geothermal pools (because, let's face it, who wouldn't want to bathe in a volcanic hot tub?).
FAQ: Iceland for Beginners
1. How to Get to Iceland from London? Plane is your best bet. Pack your patience for the immigration queues at Keflavík International Airport - those Icelanders take their biosecurity seriously (and rightly so).
2. How to Speak Icelandic? Unless you're planning on proposing to your significant other under the Northern Lights with a heartfelt Icelandic poem, a basic "hello" ("Halló") and "thank you" ("Takk") will do just fine. Most Icelanders speak excellent English.
3. How to Drive in Iceland? Those picturesque roads can get a bit hairy, especially in winter. Stick to the main highways, rent a four-wheel drive if you're feeling adventurous, and watch out for sheep (they're not very good at following traffic lights).
4. How to Prepare for the Icelandic Cost of Living? Let's just say London isn't exactly cheap either. Do your research, budget accordingly, and maybe skip the puffin on toast (it's pricier than you think).
5. How to Pack for Iceland? Layers are your friend. Thermals, a good raincoat, sturdy boots, and a hat are essential. Don't forget your swimsuit for those geothermal pools (seriously, they're amazing).
So there you have it! Iceland awaits, beckoning with its glaciers, geysers, and puffin colonies. Just remember, it's a bit of a trek from London. But hey, that just gives you more time to plan your epic adventure!
